In the vibrant Montmartre district, many tourists are in search of the perfect spot to take "the" souvenir photo.
However, locals, who mingle daily with visitors, like to take advantage of their neighborhood to relax and sometimes even rediscover it thanks to the initiatives of young entrepreneurs who offer delightful new experiences.
During a morning stroll around the Sacré-Coeur and through the historic streets of the neighborhood, we take our time wandering in search of a place that will surprise us and transport us away from Paris for a delicious interlude. The Armande restaurant and caterer, located at the top of Rue Tholozé, offers convivial and unpretentious cuisine, brimming with diverse flavors inspired by the gastronomic delights of Saint Barthélemy, Sri Lanka, and Andalusia. Each dish, designed to be shared, showcases carefully selected ingredients, often local and seasonal. Upon entering, we are greeted by Sébastien and Margaux, a warm and welcoming duo whose good humor and smiles make us feel right at home. After an explanation of the day's specials, we opt for a rosemary lemonade to refresh ourselves before beginning our meal.
Freshness, flavor, gentleness, and generosity define this cuisine, which transports us to the four corners of the world. The cucumber and cantaloupe salad with dill makes you forget the outside heat, the coleslaw with lemon juice evokes seaside lunches, not to mention the tender kefta, the roasted potato salad, and a banh mi with shredded beef, accompanied by traditional sauces or a smooth vegan mayonnaise. Before leaving, we indulge in a small pastry, the recipe for which only Margaux knows. For me, it's a Charlotte strawberry tartlet with almond cream and sumac whipped cream to end the experience in style. We take our time to savor this atmosphere down to the last crumb before heading back to the summer sun of the French capital.
After a stroll down Rue Lepic, we skirt the Montmartre Cemetery, venturing further into the 18th arrondissement. We pass the town hall and discover, just a few steps away, another promising spot. Located at number 100 Rue Damrémont, CANDID is a hybrid space whose unique charm is attracting a growing number of devotees. This urban sanctuary, designed by architect Magdalena Swiech, blends a retro-futuristic décor inspired by 1960s space age design with an atmosphere that is both singular and decadent. Inside, a large central bar encourages conversation and conviviality, transforming each visit into a cosmic experience where purists and newcomers alike gather around innovative cocktails. In the back, a more intimate space invites warm and memorable moments with friends. Dominated by shades of orange, the decor is eye-catching and immerses visitors in a thoughtful and quirky atmosphere reminiscent of Barbarella.
Conceived by Dominik Iwanski, a former engineer turned passionate mixologist, CANDID transcends time and has established itself as a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers and those seeking authentic encounters. My choice falls on the 2023 cocktail. A masterful blend of ABC and C. Drouin Calvados, aquavit, rhubarb, and fennel for a magical and unique experience. The flavors mingle, offering a surprising tasting experience. The 18th arrondissement of Paris, known for its historic districts, is reinventing itself to surprise locals and tourists alike, all seeking novel experiences that will leave a lasting impression.
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